However, alternatively, it could also be that there's a mismatch between employees' skills and what employers are looking for — which is bad for both parties.

"Vacancy durations continue to lengthen in 2016, despite other indications that labor market tightness has plateaued in recent months," said Dr. Steven Davis, William H. Abbott Professor of International Business and Economics at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

"The growing length of vacancy durations in a time of modest economic growth suggests that employers have become more selective and cautious in filling their open positions."

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